5 ways to make the most of careers fairs

Providing a unique opportunity for you to meet a range of employers in one place, careers fairs allow you to explore your options, network and uncover roles. Learn how to make the most of these valuable events

What are careers fairs?

Also known as job or recruitment fairs, careers fairs are events that bring together a number of organisations under one roof, allowing jobseekers to network and connect with employers.

They also enable attendees to discuss potential work opportunities with recruiters and gather information on different roles, job sectors and companies.

'Careers fairs are an excellent way to meet a variety of employers,' says Emma Lennox, careers consultant at Queen's University Belfast. 'You can meet organisations and be introduced to sectors you hadn't previously considered, broadening your horizons.'

Billah Qureshi, head of employer engagement and projects at the University of Reading Careers Service, explains, 'Whether you're actively looking for opportunities or just starting to think about your career, attending a fair can offer insights and connections you won't find elsewhere.'

'They also provide an excellent chance to ask the questions you can't find on the website,' adds Emma. 'For instance, what is the culture like, does the representative enjoy their job, what advice would they give on the recruitment process?'

Who are they aimed at?

When run by universities, careers fairs are typically aimed at final-year students who are ready to start filling out job applications. However, they can also give first and second-year students a head start on researching their options or finding work placements and internships.

Are there different types of careers fairs?

Yes, some of the events are general, housing employers from a mix of job sectors and industries. Others focus on particular areas of employment, such as:

• law
• STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths)
• business
• teaching.

The format of careers fairs may also vary, with some being held in person and others conducted online.

When do careers fairs take place?

While events can be run all year round, they traditionally take place during the spring and autumn terms in March/April and then September/October/November.

To see what's available, search for open days and events.

How can I make the most of careers events?

1. Be prepared

Just attending a careers fair is rarely enough if you want the event to be worth its while.

'Do a bit of research beforehand to get a sense of who employers are and what they offer, whether it's internships, placements, or graduate roles,' explains Billah. 'Even just knowing the basics can make it easier to start a good conversation.'

When you sign up, most careers fairs give you a list of attending organisations. Dig a little deeper and research the companies attending in advance, as this will allow the conversation to flow more naturally and help you build a rapport. Consider delving into each company's 'about us' web pages to understand their core values and goals.

'Narrow this down to your target employers for the day, find them on the map and head straight there - don't get distracted by free stuff,' adds Emma. 'Go with a plan, know your key skills and know how you plan to introduce yourself. Usually, a careers service will also be there, and we don't mind if you do a practice run with us first.'

Even if you have a 'hit list' of organisations, don't discount those less well-known. 'While the well-known companies often get the most attention, it's worth chatting to some of the smaller or less familiar organisations too,' says Billah. 'They can offer just as many opportunities - sometimes with more variety, quicker progression, or a more personal feel.'

Other ways to prepare include:

• updating your CV
• creating or updating your LinkedIn profile
• thinking of questions to ask employers.

2. Make a good impression

While you don't need to be in formal business attire, you're still meeting potential employers, so looking smart and being organised will help you come across as professional.

Think about how you'll introduce yourself to potential employers and prepare an initial introduction that outlines your name, subject area and what you are looking for.

'Arrive early,' suggests Emma. 'Careers fairs are long days and can be repetitive, so engage with employers while your energy levels are high.'

In addition to how you look, consider how you behave. Approach employers with a positive, engaged and enthusiastic attitude.

'Don't go with eight of your best friends, as you won't stand out in a crowd,' says Emma. These events typically last a few hours and if there are a number of recruiters you'd like to speak with, time will be of the essence. You'll be more focused if you navigate the event alone.

Rather than asking something broad like 'what do you do?', Billah suggests the following:

• do you have placement or internship options for undergraduates?
• what support or training do you offer early on?
• what skills or experience do you look for in students or graduates?

'Employers really value students who are curious and proactive,’ explains Billah. 'If you're in first or second year, don't worry about not being ready to apply - that's not the point.’

To ensure you get a worthwhile amount of time with each employer, avoid attending at lunchtime, as this is usually the busiest period.

3. Sort your online set-up

One of the main benefits of a virtual careers fair is how accessible they are, as you can log on from home and work around lectures and other commitments.

Emma reminds you that 'the same rules for in-person careers fairs also apply online - preparation and focus is key.'

'Ensure your technology and connection are reliable ahead of the event,' says Emma. 'And please don't try to talk to an employer on the phone in a busy cafe.'

Depending on the platform, you will need to create a personal profile that gives employers some information before you meet them. This differs from physical events, where they don't know anything about you until you approach them. Take your time and think about the impression you want to give in your profile.

Unlike in-person events, you can also direct message and book brief meetings with the organisations attending. Reaching out to recruiters proactively during an online fair is important since you won't be able to catch an employer's attention in the same way as you might at an in-person event.

Even though you're not there in person, you still need to consider how you’re coming across to recruiters. Find a quiet location with a neutral background, where you won't be distracted by noise. Ensure that you maintain eye contact and actively listen to the employer; this will show you are interested in what they have to say.

4. Take notes

Whether the fair is held in-person or online, make sure you have a notepad and pen to hand.

Careers fairs tend to be busy, and you'll often have a number of people to talk to in a short time. With that in mind, it can be hard to remember the details when the event is over.

Once you leave an employer's stand, take a minute to record your thoughts. Write down what you've learned about the organisation and your first impressions. Based on the information you received, would you be happy working for this company?

Also note down information such as opening dates for job applications or graduate schemes, entry criteria for roles, personal contact details and social media handles.

If you secure a job interview with an employer, these notes could help your interview preparation.

5. Follow up after the event

Making connections at a careers fair is a great start, but what you do with them after the event is what really counts.

If you've had a positive conversation with a recruiter, remember to ask for their name and contact details. 'Follow up will be key,' says Emma. ‘This can be done either through LinkedIn or email.’

Billah recommends that you 'mention something specific from your conversation - it helps you stay memorable and shows professionalism'.

Emma suggests:

Good morning [employer's name],

It was great to meet you at the [name of careers fair] and hear more about [company name] and the opportunities available. I really appreciated your insights into [mention something specific they said or a particular role/project that interested you].

I've since connected with you here on LinkedIn and wanted to say thanks again for your time. I'm particularly interested in [mention the team, graduate scheme, internship, etc.], and it would be great to stay in touch or hear more about upcoming opportunities.

Wishing you all the best, [your name]

You could also follow up on promising conversations with speculative applications to express continued interest and potentially uncover unadvertised opportunities within those companies.

If the employers you spoke to advised you to do something (such as send them your CV or contact details), ensure you do this promptly.

Most importantly, take action - start those job applications or make a note in your calendar of when they open.

Find out more

• Search graduate jobs and view all graduate schemes.
• Get help with applying for jobs.
• Learn more about getting a job.